Torquay Cricket Club is pleased to announce it has appointed Leigh Kentish as its new coach.

Kentish will take the reins from James Fisher, who has decided to step away from the role after two seasons in charge.

Kentish co-coached St Joseph’s with Trent Walerys between 2013 and 2016, winning back-to-back premierships in 2013-14 and 2014-15.

In a total of six seasons with St Joseph’s, during which he was also captain for one season, he scored 3261 runs at an average of 52.6 and claimed 101 wickets.

Most recently Kentish spent 2020-21 with Anglesea, playing in the Roos’ A-grade premiership before taking a year off in 2021-22 due to ongoing injuries.

Earlier in his career, he played with Premier club Carlton from 2008 to 2010, gaining key premier experience and coaching skills.

Kentish said he was looking forward to a new challenge at the Tigers.

“I’m really excited by the potential at Torquay, having seen the strides the club has made over the past couple of seasons,” Kentish said.

“With the base of senior and junior talent at the club, the foundations are there to build a successful culture and a push for the club to move into the GCA top division.”

Tigers president Rob Dunne thanked outgoing coach James Fisher and said Kentish was the ideal replacement.

“James has made an outstanding contribution to our club and leaves us in a better place than when he joined,” Dunne said.“

That’s a testament to James’ leadership and we thank him sincerely for his service.

“To have a well-regarded figure such as Leigh joining us to lead the next phase in our development is very positive."

With Fisher as coach, the Tigers reached the First XI semi-finals in consecutive seasons and finished second in this year’s Club Championship standings.

Anyone interested in joining Torquay for season 2022-23 is encouraged to email torquaytigerscc@gmail.com. Male, female and junior players of all standards are welcome.